West Marine will display America’s Cup trophy in Chicago

West Marine said it will host the America’s Cup trophy on June 9 at its Chicago flagship store.

People will have a chance to take a photo with the trophy from 4 to 4:30 p.m. at the 1160 N. Halsted St. store and meet athletes from Oracle Team USA and SoftBank Team Japan from 4 to 6 p.m.

Sperry will be at the Chicago store to offer giveaways and items to be autographed by the America’s Cup pros.

The Chicago location and four others around the country will carry limited-edition America’s Cup and Sperry footwear, apparel and accessories and will host a new sweepstakes — a chance to win the “Official Uniform of Oracle Team USA,” sponsored by Sperry, that is taking place from May 31 to June 30.

Those who want to enter must visit a participating store and fill out an official entry form. Five lucky grand-prize winners (one at each location) will receive a Sail Racing Oracle jacket valued at $200.

“The America’s Cup is one of the premier sailing events, so when West Marine was presented with the opportunity to host the official trophy at our Chicago flagship, we eagerly said yes,” West Marine senior marketing manager Laura Berry said in a statement. “We’re happy to have Sperry host a sweepstakes that allows our customers the opportunity win sail-worthy gear.”

“Sperry is excited to bring the thrill of the America’s Cup, Oracle Team USA and SoftBank Team Japan to West Marine,” Sperry President Rick Blackshaw said.

“As the teams race on fresh water for the first time ever with the Chicago skyline and Navy Pier as their backdrop, offering West Marine customers and fans of the America’s Cup this rare and exciting opportunity in the ‘Windy City’ is something that may happen only once in their lifetime.”